Toshiba has pulled the wraps off a new series of notebook computer called the KIRAbook. The machine is an all-new ultrabook promising a lightweight and compact design thanks to its magnesium alloy chassis.

The 2.6-lb machine has a 13-inch PixelPure display with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 (221 pixels per inch). Toshiba promises that the screen delivers razor-sharp clarity for text, photos, movies, games, and other content types. The KIRAbook will be available in standard, and touch screen versions -- the touch screen version of the ultrabook supports 10-points of touch and Windows 8 gestures.

Toshiba says that a high-capacity lithium polymer battery promising all-day battery life, while storage duties are handled by a 256 GB SSD. The ultrabook will offer 8 GB of 1600 MHz memory and a range of third generation Intel Core processors.

Pre-orders for the KIRAbook will kick off on May 3 with purchases starting May 12 online. Pricing begins at $1599 and goes up to $1999 depending on the processor chosen.

Yes, you start off with the assumption that Apple can charge more than other companies for no reason. Also, your assumption that Toshiba is a low end brand is faulty, they have several different product lines from bargain-basement Bestbuy junk to ultra high-end.